In this episode of the Built by People Podcast, Maxim Williams, the Vice President of Global Culture and Belonging at Autodesk, shares his extensive career journey and insights on leadership, culture, and the importance of learning from failures. He discusses the recent cultural transformation at Autodesk, the challenges faced in a volatile world, and the significance of upskilling in AI. Maxim emphasizes the need for curiosity and community building in the workplace, and he reflects on the legacy he hopes to leave as an HR leader.

Key Takeaways

• Maxim's career spans various industries, including tech and healthcare.
• He emphasizes the importance of culture in organizations.
• Failure can be a powerful teacher and should be embraced.
• Cultural transformation requires collaboration and input from all levels.
• Simplicity in values can lead to better employee engagement.
• Curiosity and continuous learning are essential for effective leadership.
• Building community is crucial in a hybrid work environment.
• Maxim believes in leaving a legacy of service and support.
• Understanding the business is critical for HR leaders.
• A global mindset is necessary for navigating modern challenges.

Chapters

00:00 Maxim's Career Journey

02:57 Defining Moments in Leadership

06:33 Embracing Failure and Learning

08:31 Cultural Transformation at Autodesk

10:29 Navigating Challenges in a Volatile World

12:44 Upskilling in AI and Building Community

14:58 Legacy and Values in HR Leadership

17:18 Advice for the HR Community